Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Save this recipe on:

Juicy, golden-charred chicken bites drizzled in a silky garlic cream sauce—this is the kind of dish that steals the spotlight at any dinner table. These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce bring together the smoky charm of a grill with the indulgent richness of homemade garlic sauce, creating a mouthwatering contrast that’s impossible to resist.

Perfectly portioned for parties, family dinners, or easy meal prep, these bites are all about bold flavor in compact form. Whether served on skewers or plated with a side of roasted veggies, they elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary. A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley finish this dish with a bright and fragrant touch.


Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • Fast and Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe doesn’t compromise on taste.
  • Great for Any Occasion: Works equally well for weekday dinners or weekend entertaining.
  • Creamy, But Not Heavy: The garlic sauce is rich yet light enough to keep you going back for more.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Serve as appetizers, main dish, or in wraps, bowls, or salads.
  • Kid-Approved: The savory, garlicky sauce is a hit with all ages.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make these Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce seamless from prep to plate, having the right tools is key:

  • Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: Essential for getting those irresistible char marks and smoky flavor.
  • Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and blending the sauce ingredients.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife: Ensures clean, uniform chicken bite sizes for even cooking.
  • Skewers (Metal or Soaked Wooden): Perfect if you want to serve them kabob-style.
  • Small Saucepan: Used to gently simmer and combine the creamy garlic sauce without scorching.
  • Tongs or Spatula: Makes flipping the chicken easy and safe.

Each tool helps ensure the process is smooth, and the result is juicy chicken coated in velvety garlic bliss.


Pin this Recipe

Ingredients for the Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: These are the heart of the dish, tender and perfect for grilling.
  • Olive oil: Helps the marinade cling to the chicken and keeps it juicy while grilling.
  • Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat.
  • Garlic (minced): Infuses both the marinade and sauce with bold, savory flavor.
  • Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors.
  • Paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of smokiness.
  • Heavy cream: Creates the luscious base of the creamy garlic sauce.
  • Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
  • Fresh parsley: For garnish and a fresh finish.
  • Parmesan cheese (optional): For extra umami and creamy texture in the sauce.

How To Make the Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add cubed chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers (if using) and grill for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest briefly.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté remaining garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add heavy cream, a pinch of salt, and stir until slightly thickened. Optional: whisk in parmesan cheese for a richer sauce.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the grilled chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. Serve hot with your favorite side or over rice, veggies, or warm pita.


How to Serve and Store Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

These chicken bites are delicious served hot off the grill. You can plate them with grilled vegetables, nestle them into warm pita or flatbread, or serve over rice or pasta to soak up the extra garlic sauce. They also make incredible wraps and salad toppers.

For storing, allow any leftovers to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts. The sauce can be reheated separately with a splash of cream or milk to restore its consistency.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs stay juicier and are packed with flavor. Just ensure they’re boneless and cut into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and prepare the garlic sauce a day ahead. Just reheat gently before serving.

What if I don’t have a grill?

A grill pan or even a regular nonstick skillet works fine. You’ll still get that golden sear on the chicken.

Can the sauce be made dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a plant-based butter. It will alter the flavor slightly but still be delicious.

What are good sides for this dish?

Roasted potatoes, grilled corn, lemon rice, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad all pair wonderfully.

Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze the grilled chicken separately for up to 2 months. The sauce is best made fresh, but if you freeze it, reheat slowly and whisk well to regain smoothness.


Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these grilled chicken bites, you’ll enjoy these other flavor-packed chicken dishes too:


Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the garlic? Add a pinch of spice? Try it with shrimp instead of chicken?

I love seeing your spins on these recipes. Don’t be shy—share your thoughts or questions below!


Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Kate Walton
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the perfect quick dinner idea. Juicy grilled chicken is smothered in a rich garlic cream sauce—ideal for family meals, parties, or easy weeknight cooking. A must-try if you love bold flavors and versatile chicken recipes.


Ingredients

lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

4 cloves garlic, minced (divided for marinade and sauce)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1 lemon wedge (for garnish)


Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, half of the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge.

2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers if using. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and golden charred. Remove and let rest.

3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Stir until thickened. Add parmesan cheese if desired and whisk until smooth.

4. Drizzle creamy garlic sauce over grilled chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and a lemon wedge. Serve hot with sides like rice, veggies, or warm flatbread.

Notes

Cut chicken evenly for consistent grilling.

Let the sauce simmer on low—don’t boil or it may separate.

Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor; jarred won’t give the same punch.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilled
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

Save this recipe on: